The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and local health departments are investigating at least four cases of salmonellosis affecting one Minnesota resident and three Wisconsin residents. All four of the patients received frozen breaded chicken products at a Ruby’s Pantry pop-up location before their illnesses. Specifically, a raw breaded chicken product that may look fully cooked was distributed to Ruby’s Pantry patrons without cooking instructions or labels stating that the product was raw.

Anyone who received any unlabeled chicken products from any Ruby’s Pantry location is advised to either discard any remaining product or cook it to an internal temperature of 165oF. These products may be raw even if they appear cooked. A list of all Wisconsin and Minnesota cities with a Ruby’s Pantry pop-up location can be found here: Find a Pop-Up Pantry Location Near You. Ruby’s Pantry is cooperating with investigators and has voluntarily agreed to not distribute any unlabeled chicken products.

Raw chicken products can be contaminated with Salmonella or other pathogens. When handling raw chicken products, it is important to take steps to protect you and your family. The following tips are recommended for the safe handling of raw poultry:

For additional information regarding safe handling of raw breaded chicken products, see the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Food Safety webpage: The Raw Story (PDF).

Salmonellosis is caused by Salmonella bacteria that are spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or by direct or indirect contact with fecal matter from infected people or animals. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pains, fever and vomiting that lasts for several days. Bloodstream infections can occur, but are rare, and can be quite serious in the very young and older people. Most people recover from salmonellosis on their own but may require extra fluids to prevent dehydration.

If you have consumed chicken from a Ruby’s Pantry and are experiencing symptoms of salmonellosis, contact your health care provider. Ill consumers in Wisconsin should also contact their local health department and ill Minnesotans should contact the Minnesota Department of Health.